REVIEW · KO PHI PHI DON
Travel from Koh Phi Phi to Krabi by Ferry/Speedboat
Book on Viator →Operated by Trip Store Krabi · Bookable on Viator
Two hours is all it takes to switch islands. This high-speed, direct ferry run from Koh Phi Phi to Krabi is one of the simplest ways to keep your beach days intact. You leave from Ton Sai Pier and arrive at Krabi Passenger Port, usually with no extra stops slowing you down.
What I like most is the combination of speed and choice. You can pick upper-deck seating for a better view, or go inside for air-conditioning when the sun and humidity hit hard. Add in the fact that the boats tend to be described as clean, and the crew as courteous and helpful, and this transfer feels far less stressful than the usual “get there somehow” plan.
One thing to consider: this is a weather-driven ferry. If sea conditions are rough or availability is limited, the trip can be delayed, postponed, or cancelled, even though the operator promises a full refund in those cases.
In This Review
- Key highlights worth knowing
- The fastest way to get from Phi Phi to Krabi
- Where the ride starts: Ton Sai Pier check-in sanity tips
- Choosing your seat: upper deck vs air-conditioned cabin
- The onboard experience: clean boats, helpful crew, and real comfort
- About timing: how to plan the rest of your day in Krabi
- When the sea decides: delays, reschedules, and refunds
- Price and value: what $17.36 buys you
- Who this ferry suits best (and who should think twice)
- A smooth-day checklist that actually helps
- Provider note: Trip Store Krabi and the service style
- Should you book this ferry transfer?
- FAQ
- How long does the ferry take from Koh Phi Phi to Krabi?
- Where does the ferry depart and where does it arrive?
- How many times a day does the ferry run?
- What time should I arrive at Ton Sai Pier?
- Is hotel pickup or drop-off included?
- What’s included in the price?
- What happens if the ferry is cancelled due to bad weather?
Key highlights worth knowing

- Direct route, about 2 hours: less waiting and less time bouncing around docks
- Two seating options: upper deck for fresh air and inside air-con for comfort
- Arrive early: get to Ton Sai Pier at least 30 minutes before departure
- Premium option (if you choose it): more lounge time plus features like charging ports
- Crew handles heavy luggage: stored inside during the ride, then unloaded at the dock
- Free cancellation up to 24 hours: and full refunds are offered if cancelled due to poor weather
The fastest way to get from Phi Phi to Krabi

If your Krabi plan depends on keeping timing tight, this ferry makes sense. The crossing is listed at around 2 hours, and it’s a direct service—meaning you’re not wasting half a day on extra pick-ups or odd detours. The ferry runs four times a day, which is useful when you’re trying to line up dinner plans, a beach tour, or just a smooth check-in to your accommodation.
The route is also straightforward: you depart from Ton Sai Pier on Koh Phi Phi Don and arrive at Krabi Passenger Port. That matters because “where exactly do I land?” can change the next leg of your trip. Landing at the passenger port keeps you in the normal flow of onward transport.
Where the ride starts: Ton Sai Pier check-in sanity tips

You’ll want to treat check-in like part of your trip, not an afterthought. The guidance is clear: arrive at least 30 minutes before departure at Ton Sai Pier. When the day is busy, this buffer helps you avoid the classic rush—especially if you have luggage or need to sort out your seat category.
One real-world detail from experience with this kind of ferry service: check-in can feel confusing if you’re arriving at the last minute. The best fix is simple: show up early, keep your booking confirmation handy, and be ready to communicate clearly about your name and transfer time.
Also, bring a small amount of patience. Even when everything runs well, the check-in area can get busy because people are doing the same thing you are—moving from island time to mainland logistics.
Choosing your seat: upper deck vs air-conditioned cabin
Once you board, you’ll typically be able to choose between upper deck seating or going inside with air-conditioning. This decision changes the whole feel of the crossing.
- If you want fresh air and a sense of speed, pick the upper deck. You’ll be sitting where you can better enjoy the ride and keep an eye on the sea as you go.
- If you’re heat-sensitive or just want to cool down quickly, the inside seats are the move. After Phi Phi’s beach sun, air-conditioning can feel like a reset button.
If you’re thinking about upgrading, there’s mention of a premium class option where you can lounge more comfortably, nap, and use charging ports. If your body clock is off or you want to arrive feeling ready to move, that extra comfort can be worth it.
The onboard experience: clean boats, helpful crew, and real comfort
The overall vibe from the feedback is positive around the basics: the rides are described as fast, reliable, and efficient, with courteous and friendly staff. The boat experience also tends to come across as clean and well kept.
Two practical perks show up in the review-style notes that are easy to overlook when you’re only thinking about the destination:
- Luggage handling: the crew takes care of heavy bags for you. The luggage is stored inside during the journey and then unloaded for pick-up when you reach the dock.
- Staff support when things go wrong: customer service gets called out for fast response, which matters if you run into an issue with your booking details.
In plain terms, the ferry works best when you travel with a clear plan: show up early, label your bags, and don’t make the transfer your first moment of stress that day.
About timing: how to plan the rest of your day in Krabi

The crossing is about two hours, and the ferry arrives at Krabi Passenger Port. From there, you’re responsible for your onward transport to your hotel. Hotel pickup/drop-off is not included, so your next step should be ready before you get off the boat.
Here’s how I’d build your day:
- Assume you’ll need a little buffer after landing. Even on a smooth day, moving from dock to your next transport takes time.
- If you have tours booked in Krabi, aim for your next activity to start with room for delay—especially if you’re traveling during seasons when weather can affect crossings.
- If you’re planning a transfer to another area of Krabi, confirm your timing so you don’t feel rushed while you’re still unloading bags.
The good news is the schedule runs four times daily, so if one departure doesn’t fit, there are usually other options.
When the sea decides: delays, reschedules, and refunds

This ferry isn’t a “set it and forget it” service. The important point is that the transfer depends on good weather and sea conditions, and limited availability can also affect timing. If something goes off schedule—delay, postponement, or cancellation—your booking includes a full refund in those cases.
The cancellation terms are also travel-friendly: you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the experience start time for a full refund. If cancellation happens because of poor weather, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.
If you’re the type who hates uncertainty, keep this in mind: this is a fast transfer, but it’s also part of the island-to-mainland rhythm where conditions matter. Build your itinerary with at least one flexible block, and you’ll feel a lot calmer.
Price and value: what $17.36 buys you
The listed price is $17.36 per person, with the duration around 2 hours. That’s typically strong value for a one-way transfer, especially when it’s direct and you’re not paying for a longer, stop-heavy route.
Here’s the real value breakdown:
- You’re paying for time saved: getting to Krabi in about two hours keeps you from losing a full day to slow travel.
- You’re paying for simplicity: departure and arrival ports are clearly defined, and the crossing is designed as a transfer rather than an all-day experience.
- You’re not paying for extras you might not need: hotel pickup/drop-off isn’t included, so you’re only paying for the boat portion and basic coverage.
Also included: basic travel insurance. It’s not a replacement for a full policy you might choose for yourself, but it does add peace of mind that there’s at least some baseline protection built into the transfer.
Who this ferry suits best (and who should think twice)
This transfer is a great match if you want:
- A time-efficient route from Koh Phi Phi Don to Krabi
- A simple plan that doesn’t require tons of extra logistics
- Options for comfort, like air-conditioned seating or even premium lounge (if you choose it)
It’s less ideal if you:
- Hate schedule uncertainty and can’t tolerate weather-related changes
- Need door-to-door service (because hotel pickup/drop-off is not included)
- Arrive at the pier unprepared for check-in timing (show up early)
For most people doing island hopping, it’s a practical move. For anyone with strict tour timing and no wiggle room, you’ll just want to plan with extra buffer.
A smooth-day checklist that actually helps
If you want the ferry to go smoothly, here’s a quick routine I’d follow:
- Arrive at Ton Sai Pier 30 minutes early
- Keep your booking confirmation easily accessible
- Decide your comfort plan up front: upper deck for the feel, inside for cooling down
- Pack essentials in a small bag you can grab quickly if you need them before luggage is fully managed
- Once you land at Krabi Passenger Port, be ready to move on immediately since you’ve got your own transport to your accommodation
This is also a good place to double-check your ticket details before you reach the counter area. One review note flagged a ticket/access issue that led to extra payment. You won’t want that kind of stress, so it’s smart to verify that your booking details and what the staff expect to see match.
Provider note: Trip Store Krabi and the service style
This ferry transfer is provided by Trip Store Krabi. Across the feedback, the service style tends to focus on getting people moving on time, with friendly, courteous staff and a ride that’s described as clean and efficient.
One thing I appreciate in this kind of transfer: when customer support is quick to respond, it turns potential headaches into manageable ones. That support responsiveness shows up in the feedback as a reason people feel confident recommending the service.
Should you book this ferry transfer?
Book it if you want a direct, fast transfer and you’re okay with weather being a factor. At about two hours for $17.36, it’s a strong, straightforward way to shift from Koh Phi Phi Don to Krabi without turning your travel day into a marathon.
Skip it or plan carefully if you have zero flexibility in your schedule, or if you expect hotel pickup. The ferry gets you to Krabi Passenger Port, and then it’s on you to reach your accommodation.
If your goal is a clean transfer with minimal fuss—and you’ll arrive early and stay flexible—this one is a solid bet.
FAQ
How long does the ferry take from Koh Phi Phi to Krabi?
The high-speed ferry journey is about two hours.
Where does the ferry depart and where does it arrive?
It departs from Ton Sai Pier on Koh Phi Phi Don and arrives at Krabi Passenger Port.
How many times a day does the ferry run?
The ferry runs four times a day.
What time should I arrive at Ton Sai Pier?
Arrive at least 30 minutes before the boat is due to depart.
Is hotel pickup or drop-off included?
No. Hotel pickup and drop-off are not included.
What’s included in the price?
The price includes a one-way transfer by ferry/speedboat and basic travel insurance.
What happens if the ferry is cancelled due to bad weather?
If it’s cancelled due to bad weather or sea conditions, you’ll receive a full refund, and you may be offered another date.










